P4C
Why We Teach Philosophy for Children (P4C) at Our School
At Wellington Primary School we are committed to providing an education that nurtures curious, confident, and thoughtful learners. That’s why we integrate Philosophy for Children (P4C) into our curriculum—an approach designed to develop critical thinking, communication, and emotional intelligence in young minds.
What Is P4C?
P4C is an interactive and discussion-based learning method that encourages children to ask questions, explore ideas, and think deeply about the world around them. Through guided conversations, children gain valuable skills such as reasoning, empathy, and problem-solving. It was established over forty years ago by Professor Matthew Lipman of Montclair State University in the United States and is now practised around the world.
How Does P4C Benefit Your Child?
✔ Develops Critical Thinking – Helps children evaluate ideas, ask thoughtful questions, and make informed decisions.
✔ Improves Communication Skills – Encourages children to express themselves clearly, listen actively, and respect different viewpoints.
✔ Builds Confidence and Independence – Empowers children to think for themselves, justify their reasoning, and engage in meaningful discussions.
✔ Encourages Emotional Intelligence – Supports children in understanding emotions, considering ethical dilemmas, and showing empathy toward others.
What Does a P4C Lesson Look Like?
Teachers use engaging stories, images, or thought-provoking questions to spark discussion. In these sessions, children explore topics such as fairness, kindness, and truth while learning how to articulate their ideas and listen to others. All participants work together in a ‘community of enquiry’.
The aim for each child is not to win an argument but to become clearer, more accurate, less self-contradictory and more aware of other arguments and values before reaching a conclusion.
P4C promotes the British values of democracy and mutual respect for and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and for those without faith.
P4C at Wellington is a whole school approach with every child from Nursery to Year 6 taking part in regular P4C sessions.